Hands-On: NEC Terrain for AT&T

Market Penetration

So.. the article says that NEC was looking to make a comeback in the U.S., but I can't honestly believe that if the first device they put out is a ruggedized device like this one... I mean, sure there's definately a market for it, but it seems like a performance-based device with an intensified andoid experience would have a greater market penetration... I suppose it would take more money, more time, and more risk... but I just don't think a device like the Terrain will give them the sort of penetration it'll take to get their foot in the door of most U.S. consumers.

dalius_maximus said:So.. the article says that NEC was looking to make a comeback in the U.S., but I can't honestly believe that if the first device they put out is a ruggedized device like this one... I mean, sure there's definately a market for it, but it seems like a performance-based device with an intensified andoid experience would have a greater market penetration... I suppose it would take more money, more time, and more risk... but I just don't think a device like the Terrain will give them the sort of penetration it'll take to get their foot in the door of most U.S. consumers.

Unless you consider that Blackberry has essentially abandoned its core customers. The lack of physical function keys an...(continues)

You have a good point. I wonder how soon we'll see more from NEC, and I wonder how many BB-fallouts will be aware that the Terrain is available and comparable to the BB experience (as far as physical function). I guess I'll just have to look for the sales numbers

I am really happy with my NEC Terrain. I wasn't in the market for a "rugged" phone, but it is certainly a bonus that it is so durable. As it happens, I do a lot of camping and caving, and a dust-proof, water-proof smart phone will be advantageous.

The reason I wanted this phone the moment I read about it is because it combined two features that I despaired I would never find together: an Android OS and a physical keyboard. For months I've been torn between Androids and Blackberries. I loved my old Blackberry for texting and talking, and I loved my current Android for apps and internet. I was down to choosing between the Blackberry Q10 and the HTC One, both of which I've heard great things about, but I knew whatever I chose I was going to ...(continues)